Île Maurice : Le viol conjugal désormais pénalisé, jusqu'à 45 ans de prison pour les auteurs
Marriage no longer provides legal protection for perpetrators of rape in Mauritius. The Mauritian Parliament adopted a major amendment to the Penal Code on Tuesday, July 21, officially recognizing marital rape, reports Radio France Internationale (RFI).
This reform ends the historical exception that spouses prosecuted for non-consensual sexual acts against their wives previously enjoyed. From now on, consent remains essential, even within the context of married life. The status of spouse can therefore no longer be invoked in court to avoid criminal prosecution for rape.
Mauritian Justice Minister Gavin Glover emphasized the symbolic and legal significance of this reform. According to him, marriage "is no longer a shield," and no distinction should be made between sexual assault committed by a spouse and that perpetrated by a stranger. Whether it is a civil or religious union, marriage can no longer serve as a defense for the alleged perpetrator.
The new legislation also provides for a significant increase in penalties in several aggravating circumstances. In particular, sentences are increased when the perpetrator is the victim's spouse or intimate partner, but also when the victim is pregnant, a minor, in a vulnerable situation, or has already been a victim of domestic violence.
Considering that the breach of trust within the couple constitutes a major aggravating circumstance, the Mauritian legislator has set penalties ranging from ten to forty-five years of penal servitude.
In the opposition, MP Joanna Bérenger of the Militant Progressive Front welcomed the adoption of this societal advancement, while still deeming it incomplete. According to her, Mauritius should have prioritized the adoption of comprehensive and integrated legislation on sexual offenses, rather than proceeding through successive amendments to the Penal Code.
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